Jacolyn M. Daniluck
Public Relations and Communications Officer
Mount Revelstoke & Glacier national parks
Parks Canada
The Trans Canada is closed at Revelstoke and Golden because of a mudslide near the east boundary of Glacier National Park.
As a result of heavy rain, mud is flowing down the mountainside and over the Trans Canada Highway.
This is an area of unstable slopes where catchment basins are constructed to intercept the flows; however, the rate of volume of flow is greater than the basins can hold. The mud and debris is about 3 m deep and is impacting approximately 400 m of the highway.
One vehicle was caught in the slide but the occupant was removed and taken to a safe area uninjured. Parks Canada staff is currently assessing the site for stability and then will work to clear the site with all available heavy equipment. However, due to the unpredictable nature of the mudflow, further disruptions are expected. This situation will likely continue through the next few days. If it becomes possible to open the highway to single-lane, alternating traffic, travellers will be advised to drive cautiously and be prepared for further road closures.
Should potential for a serious hazard warrant it, the Trans-Canada Highway will remain closed, and alternate routes will be suggested. Travellers will be notified on the Drive BC website (www.drivebc.ca) and phone centre (1-800-550-4997), and by the overhead signs in Revelstoke and Golden.
